Sometimes, it pays off to suck it up and go for it.

I wrote Steve Kilbey, vocalist for Australian band The Church, and asked if he'd help me choose a Church album to write about

I'm filled with neurosis when it comes to interacting with almost anyone, and get worse with famous people, and the fear I will waste their time obnoxiously. Somewhat unfortunately, nervousness makes me verbose. Even (especially) when I can edit it.

He actually answered me, quite graciously. I figured that was the (rather nice!) end of that.

When I saw that message, I actually removed the poll, feeling like he wanted to be sure the less-famous album (Starfish contains their biggest hit, "Under the Milky Way") got some attention, and I found that reasonable and wanted to help.
And yes, nervousness also makes me type poorly.

Except then, he made a request.

Now...now I had to write something worthy of him reading it. And send it to him. Gulp.

I was quite sure that was the end of it, but...he got back to me

After this, it was shared on the official Church website, Facebook page, and by Steve himself.